Employers handed annual return reminder

Date: 16th April 2009

Small businesses have been issued a reminder to ensure they file their Employer Annual Return by May 19th, or face a penalty.

While employers have the opportunity to submit either in writing or online, managers may want to consider filing over using HM Revenues and Customs' (HMRC) website, as they will then be eligible for a £75 payment.

A spokesperson for the department said: "To file online, employers must first register with HMRC's 'PAYE Online for Employers' service.

"It can take up to a week to get the activation PIN after registering, so employers shouldn't leave it until the last minute."

Tax advisers and agents, such as local accountants, can also file on behalf of businesses and still receive the £75 taxation-free payment.

HMRC revealed earlier this year that almost six million people in the UK had filed their self-assessment tax returns using the department's website.